🔗 Share this article

"Victory was there. We are aware the win was within reach."

Manager Gregor Townsend expressed pride in the Scottish display versus New Zealand but was disappointed by a 25-17 loss at Murrayfield.

The hosts were behind seventeen to nil at the half, only to storm back and draw level on the hour.

However, the New Zealand team, who had three players sent to the penalty box, struck late through Damian McKenzie to prevent Scotland the chance of a first victory in this match-up.

"I feel let down primarily, because the hard work that went into that second half showing was all character," Townsend stated.

"It was crucial to push forward when it got to seventeen all and there were a few key instances that swung New Zealand's way.

"Outstanding second half, we demonstrated our true selves today and we probably revealed who we are by not getting the win as well.

"Progress is evident in this team and we must win those crucial points when the match is there for us.

"Aspects of that performance indicate we are competitive with the best teams in the world. We just must make that next step."

Key Moments of the Game

• Scores from Ewan Ashman and Kyle Steyn hauled Scotland back into an gripping battle.
• Darcy Graham and Rory Hutchinson had been stopped over the line in the opening period when Cameron Roigard and Will Jordan notched points for the visitors.

"Opponents get tired when you apply pressure," said Townsend, who has now been defeated in three home Tests against the All Blacks as manager - all by single digit margins.

"I'd love to be playing New Zealand again next week. We meet Argentina and we need to put in what we have gained.

"This is the first time this squad has played together since the tournament. To get that unity straight away is difficult and to see it grow during the game is encouraging.

"However it's so disheartening with that effort that we failed to achieve a win.

"It represents the nearest we've come to victory, I think. We dominated the later stages, field position, intensity, ability. We've not achieved that against New Zealand in our history and we are improved for the experience.

"Our journey continues today. We have a very big game coming up and more important games to come in the Six Nations."

Skipper's Reaction

Scottish leader Sione Tuipulotu labeled the loss as "mixed feelings" and stressed the importance of a victory against Argentina, having started the autumn series with a record score against the United States.

"I instructed the boys we needed a reaction at the break," he said. "Either we lie down or choose to fight back.

"There was no downside and everything to gain.

"It is essential we recover for next week because Argentina aren't going to make it any easier."